As the former faculty adviser to Iowa Student Public Interest Research Group during the 1980s, I would like to add my experience to the debate that will occur in the GSB Senate Wednesday.

The Iowa Student Public Interest Research Group (ISPIRG) has been an invaluable resource to the community for the past 30 years. It has worked effectively to preserve the quality of our environment, revitalize our democracy and protect consumer rights. The GSB Senate will decide today whether to recognize ISPIRG as a GSB funded group. A “yes” vote will re-establish a fully funded chapter of ISPIRG.

This would grant ISU students a wonderful opportunity to learn about civic processes and grass-roots organizing through internships and volunteer projects. A “yes” vote will also allow ISPIRG to advocate on behalf of students and citizens in the Ames City Council, the Iowa Legislature and in the U.S. Congress in defense of our environmental and consumer rights.

I urge students to contact their senators and urge them to vote in favor of funding ISPIRG.

Or, better yet, attend the meeting yourself and urge them in person!

Tony Smith

Professor and Chairman

Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies